Skin Care Basics: Face Washing

Many patients ask me about the right way to wash their face. A gentle non-abrasive cleanser is best (Dove unscented bar soap is my favorite). It is important to avoid scrubbing the face. Bath sponges and even wash cloths can create too much friction and irritate the skin. After wetting your face, massage in the cleanser with your fingertips, rinse with lukewarm water, and pat dry with a soft towel.  If your skin is dry after cleansing, apply an unscented, non-comedogenic (aka non pore clogging) moisturizer to the face. It is best to find a moisturizer for the morning that also contains sunscreen, preferably SPF 30 or higher. Wearing sunscreen 365 days of the year is an essential cornerstone of good skin care and is the BEST anti-aging investment you can make. For more information on how to wash your face and for cost-effective tips on keeping your skin healthy, watch these videos below from the American Academy of Dermatology: